Article
Chemistry, Physical
Shaomeng Huang, Xueyang Zhang, Liping Wang, Dan Li, Can Zhang, Lei Yang, Qiongqiong He, Bin Gao
Summary: In this study, a Ca-deficient regulation method was used to create ion channels during HAP synthesis, increasing the defluoridation capacity by 50%. The adsorption performance followed the Pseudo-second-order kinetic model and Freundlich isotherm model, and the catalytic decomposition of HF molecules on the surface of HAP was discovered for the first time.
APPLIED SURFACE SCIENCE
(2023)
Article
Nanoscience & Nanotechnology
Brandon Clark, Genesis Gilles, William A. Tarpeh
Summary: This study demonstrates the use of zinc-acrylate ligand exchange resin and tertiary amine acrylic weak base resin to achieve resin-mediated pH control, improving the selectivity and adsorption efficiency of recovering total ammonia nitrogen (TAN) from wastewater.
ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Biswajit Bera, Sayak Saha Chowdhury, Vrushabh Rajendrabhai Sonawane, Sirshendu De
Summary: Aluminium substituted hydroxyapatite (Al-HAp) was synthesized in-situ on granular commercial wood charcoal for fluoride removal from groundwater. The adsorbent had high surface area and achieved the highest fluoride adsorption capacity among reported adsorbents. Batch studies and continuous column run experiments were conducted to investigate the adsorption efficiency under different conditions. A mass transport model based on porediffusion was used to simulate breakthrough behavior in fixed-bed column runs.
CHEMICAL ENGINEERING JOURNAL
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Kok Yuen Koh, Zhihao Chen, Sui Zhang, J. Paul Chen
Summary: This study synthesized and tested several chitosan/lanthanum hydrogel beads for phosphate removal, with one particular bead showing exceptional performance and the ability to be regenerated and reused effectively. The mechanism of phosphate removal by the bead involves electrostatic attraction and ion exchange.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Gabrielle E. Kamm, Guanglong Huang, Simon M. Vornholt, Rebecca D. McAuliffe, Gabriel M. Veith, Katsuyo S. Thornton, Karena W. Chapman
Summary: The article discusses the importance of understanding and controlling the phenomena that limit solid-state reactions for material synthesis. The study focuses on a model reaction and explores how altering the packing and interfacial contact between reagent particles affects the reaction kinetics. Analysis shows that there are different kinetic regimes in the reaction process, with the fast kinetic regime dominating the initial stages of the reaction. The article also presents simulation results that support the observed experimental findings.
JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN CHEMICAL SOCIETY
(2022)
Article
Spectroscopy
Abdul G. Al Lafi, Jamal Al Abdullah, Yusr Amin, Yara Aljbai, Hussam Allham, Asmhan Obiad
Summary: Fourier Transform Infra-Red (FTIR) spectroscopy is an important technique for understanding the structure of adsorbents and designing improved ion exchange materials. This study investigates the adsorption mechanism of U(VI)/Th(IV) and Ra(II)/Ba(II) radionuclide couples on polystyrene nano manganese dioxide (PS-NMO) composite, focusing on the effect of working solution pH. The results show that the separation of U(VI)/Th(IV) and Ra(II)/Ba(II) couples can be effectively achieved at specific pH values, and the pH also affects the structure of the composite adsorbent. FTIR spectroscopy reveals the formation of different complexes and changes in the composite structure in response to metal ions.
SPECTROCHIMICA ACTA PART A-MOLECULAR AND BIOMOLECULAR SPECTROSCOPY
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Chemical
Jiaqi Xu, Pan Chen
Summary: In this study, a high-performance lithium-ion sieve was prepared using inexpensive attapulgite. The sieve exhibited excellent adsorption efficiency, selectivity, and recycling properties. The formation of a lithium ion memory pore and the filling of pores by lithium ions were observed during the adsorption process. The study provides a new approach to the market application of attapulgite resources.
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Yonghui Xing, Song Liu, Xuesong Luo, Wenjie Wan, Jie Wan, Tianyuan Zhang, Wenli Chen, Qiaoyun Huang
Summary: In this study, a medium was designed for the preparation of nano-scale carbonate hydroxyapatite through microbial mineralization, which has a large specific surface area and adsorption capacity, making it a potential candidate for heavy metal bioremediation in polluted environments.
JOURNAL OF CLEANER PRODUCTION
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Sen Yang, Xiantang Liu, Gang Yang
Summary: Molecular dynamics simulations were used to investigate the adsorption of single and binary metal ions by montmorillonite particle edges under various pH conditions. The results revealed the mechanisms of pH regulation, ion-specific effects, co-ion impacts, thermodynamics and kinetics of ion exchange, and immobilization of heavy metals. The adsorption densities of Na+ and Pb2+ were found to be higher than K+ and Cs+, and adsorption was greatly promoted with pH elevation. The selectivity of the montmorillonite particle edges was always towards Na+, but pH elevation increased the selectivity towards Pb2+.
APPLIED CLAY SCIENCE
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Cong Xie, Xiao Zhang, Hsueh Shih Chen, Ping Yang
Summary: The synergistic and post-treatment kinetics were studied to create highly bright and stable perovskite nanocrystals. Ligand and ion exchange mechanism were evaluated to improve the photoluminescence efficiency and stability. The results showed that the treated nanocrystals exhibited high efficiency and stability, suggesting potential applications in optoelectronics.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Yanying Hou, Lujie Liu, Qiaole He, Di Zhang, Jiayang Jin, Banghe Jiang, Liming Zhao
Summary: This study investigated the adsorption characteristics of chitooligosaccharides on ion-exchange resin and found that the adsorption equilibrium followed the Langmuir model, with adsorption capacity decreasing with increasing degree of polymerization. The adsorption kinetics were well described by the pseudo-second-order kinetic model. Liquid-film diffusion and intra-particle diffusion were identified as the rate-limiting steps for adsorption. Thermodynamic analysis revealed that the adsorption of chitooligosaccharides on HX-7 resin was spontaneous and feasible, with higher polymerization degrees leading to stronger interaction forces and more favorable adsorption.
CHEMICAL ENGINEERING JOURNAL
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Wenxiang Ni, Haoran Dai, Guanwen Ding, Meichen Ye, Hui Qiu
Summary: A new nanocomposite, UiO-66-NH2@PS+, was successfully fabricated and exhibited outstanding adsorption performance for fluoride. Fixed-bed tests showed that it could continuously produce clean water from simulated fluoride-polluted water, highlighting its potential application in practical settings.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Neksumi Musa, Bharat Kumar Allam, Nakshatra Bahadur Singh, Sushmita Banerjee
Summary: Ce-Al bimetallic oxides with variable atomic ratios were synthesized and used for efficient fluoride removal. The properties of the synthesized material were extensively studied using advanced characterization techniques. The Ce-Al (1:1) oxide demonstrated high surface area and excellent fluoride adsorption capacity. The adsorption mechanism and dynamics were investigated, and the sustainable aspect of the defluoridation process was evaluated.
ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION
(2023)
Article
Electrochemistry
Asuman Unal, A. Robert Hillman, Karl S. Ryder, Salih Cihangir
Summary: The electrochemically switched ion-exchange (ESIX) technique using poly(aniline-co-o-aminophenol) copolymer has shown excellent performance for fluoride removal from water, indicating significant potential for water defluoridation.
JOURNAL OF THE ELECTROCHEMICAL SOCIETY
(2021)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Zeqiu Li, Chenyang Yang, Kuk Cho
Summary: In this study, two dittmarite-type magnesium phosphates, KMP and NMP, were synthesized and demonstrated remarkable adsorption capacities for Cs+. However, their ability to adsorb Cs+ from environments with high divalent ion concentrations is limited. After adsorption, KMP and NMP were structurally transformed into CsMP, with two different stacking structures depending on the solution's pH. The high adsorption capacities of KMP and NMP can reduce the volume of radioactive waste for disposal.
JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Frida Nyamete, Musa Chacha, Titus Msagati, Jofrey Raymond
Summary: The study assesses the distribution and concentrations of As, Pb, Hg, Cd, and Cr in farmed catfish and tilapia, fish feed, and pond sediment in Tanzania. The results indicate low heavy metal intakes and no health risk from fish consumption, but potential non-carcinogenic health risk is present.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Nathaniel B. Bolujoko, Olumuyiwa O. Ogunlaja, Moses O. Alfred, Dorcas M. Okewole, Aemere Ogunlaja, Olumide D. Olukanni, Titus A. M. Msagati, Emmanuel Unuabonah
Summary: Parabens are widely used chemicals in various products and are classified as emerging contaminants with endocrine-disrupting capability. A study conducted in Osun State, Nigeria found higher concentrations of Methylparaben in surface water and groundwater compared to other countries. The study also suggests possible health implications from the use of paraben-polluted potable water.
SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Werner Brack, Damia Barcelo Culleres, Alistair B. A. Boxall, Helene Budzinski, Sara Castiglioni, Adrian Covaci, Valeria Dulio, Beate I. Escher, Peter Fantke, Faith Kandie, Despo Fatta-Kassinos, Felix J. Hernandez, Klara Hilscherova, Juliane Hollender, Henner Hollert, Annika Jahnke, Barbara Kasprzyk-Hordern, Stuart J. Khan, Andreas Kortenkamp, Klaus Kuemmerer, Brice Lalonde, Marja H. Lamoree, Yves Levi, Pablo Antonio Lara Martin, Cassiana C. Montagner, Christian Mougin, Titus Msagati, Joerg Oehlmann, Leo Posthuma, Malcolm Reid, Martin Reinhard, Susan D. Richardson, Pawel Rostkowski, Emma Schymanski, Flurina Schneider, Jaroslav Slobodnik, Yasuyuki Shibata, Shane Allen Snyder, Fernando Fabriz Sodre, Ivana Teodorovic, Kevin V. Thomas, Gisela A. Umbuzeiro, Pham Hung Viet, Karina Gin Yew-Hoong, Xiaowei Zhang, Ettore Zuccato
Summary: A suggestion to establish an international science-policy body has been made to address the severe threats of chemical pollution crisis. Immediate action is crucial and should be informed by reliable scientific knowledge and data. Challenges for such a body include global knowledge production, coverage of all hazardous chemicals, a one-health perspective, and solution-oriented assessments based on systems thinking.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES EUROPE
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Alusani Manyatshe, Zamani E. D. Cele, Mohammed O. Balogun, Thabo T. Nkambule, Titus A. M. Msagati
Summary: Improving the surface chemistry of biocomposites is crucial for enhancing their application potential. Chemical methods have been frequently used in the preparation of biocomposites, which are mainly composed of lignocellulosic derivatives and chitosan. This review evaluates different preparation methods and investigates the application of biocomposites as biosorbent materials for removing organic and inorganic contaminants in aqueous solutions.
JOURNAL OF WATER PROCESS ENGINEERING
(2022)
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Welldone Moyo, Nhamo Chaukura, Machawe M. Motsa, Titus A. M. Msagati, Bhekie B. Mamba, Sebastiaan G. J. Heijman, Thabo T. Nkambule
Summary: Surface modification of ceramic nanofiltration membranes via atomic layer deposition (ALD) can effectively enhance their antifouling properties and reduce the impact of pollutants on the membrane. By altering the surface properties of the membrane, the affinity between the membrane and water is increased, thereby improving its anti-fouling performance.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Bongekile Vilakati, Sivasankar Venkataraman, Hlengilizwe Nyoni, Bhekie B. Mamba, Kiyoshi Omine, Titus A. M. Msagati
Summary: A pyrolysis GC-ToF-MS-based analytical study was conducted to identify microplastics in the freshwater of Rietvlei dam in Gauteng Province, South Africa. The study found that the microplastics contained different plastic polymers and additives, with PA being the most dominant polymer. The presence of microplastics in the freshwater is likely caused by industrial activities and poor waste management, and it can have negative impacts on the ecosystem and human health.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Alusani Manyatshe, Zamani E. D. Cele, Mohammed O. Balogun, Thabo T. I. Nkambule, Titus A. M. Msagati
Summary: In this work, a biosorbent bio-composite consisting of pretreated sugarcane bagasse, chitosan, and epichlorohydrin was prepared and used for the adsorption of phosphate from aqueous media. The study showed that high solvent concentration enhanced the extraction of cellulose and pretreatment enhanced the compatibility between cellulose and chitosan. The addition of epichlorohydrin improved the adsorption capacity and stability of the biosorbent. Characterization techniques were used and batch studies showed that the biosorbent was pH dependent, selective, and recyclable.
CANADIAN JOURNAL OF CHEMISTRY
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Matome Mothetha, Kefeni Kebede, Vhahangwele Masindi, Titus A. M. Msagati
Summary: This study meticulously reports the synergistic effects of mechanochemically synthesized metakaolinite-Ca-rich-MgO nanocomposite for effective treatment of acid mine drainage (AMD). Advanced analytical techniques and instruments, such as FTIR, HR-FIB/SEM, EDS, XRF, and XRD, were used to support the obtained results. Optimal conditions were observed for mixing time, feedstock dosage, temperature, and pH. The metal content in real AMD matrices was significantly reduced, and sulphate levels were greatly reduced. This study holds great promise for sustainable management of AMD effluents from coal mining activities.
JOURNAL OF WATER PROCESS ENGINEERING
(2023)
Article
Agronomy
Emmanuella Chioma Nnabuo-Eguzozie, Rose Waithiegeni Kibechu, Kennedy Uchenna Eguzozie, Khayalethu Ntushelo, Bhekie B. Mamba, Hlengilizwe Nyoni, Thabo T. I. Nkambule, Titus A. M. Msagati
Summary: The current study aimed to investigate metabolite regulations and nutrient assimilation patterns as biomarkers for waterborne fungal and spoilage bacterial intensities in greenhouse-cultivated tomato crops using advanced analytical techniques. The results could be applied for detecting and identifying biotic stress in tomato crops.
AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Microbiology
Thabile Lukhele, Titus Alfred Makudali Msagati
Summary: This study identified bacteria from extreme and polluted environments that have the potential to bioremediate microcystin-LR. These bacteria were able to grow optimally at alkaline pH and different concentrations of microcystin-LR, suggesting the use of a unique degradation pathway.
ARCHIVES OF MICROBIOLOGY
(2023)
Review
Agronomy
Emmanuella C. Nnabuo-Eguzozie, Rose W. Kibechu, Kennedy U. Eguzozie, Bhekie B. Mamba, Hlengilizwe Nyoni, Thabo T. I. Nkambule, Titus A. M. Msagati
Summary: A significant number of people worldwide suffer from diseases related to unsafe vegetable crops. Early identification of waterborne microbial pathogens affecting vegetable crops is crucial for disease control. Analytical techniques such as metabolomics and proteomics can be used to investigate secreted compounds and molecular biomarkers, which can be exploited to diagnose microbial pathogens and improve understanding of host-pathogen interactions.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Deogratius T. Maiga, Rose W. Kibechu, Bhekie B. Mamba, Titus A. M. Msagati, Terence T. Phadi
Summary: In this study, functionalized mesoporous silica was successfully synthesized and evaluated as a promising stationary phase for solid-phase extraction (SPE) of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in water samples. The synthesized sorbent exhibited outstanding performance in extracting PAHs, with high recovery rates and low limits of detection. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of the hybrid mesoporous silica as a stationary phase for sensitive detection of PAHs in water samples.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Lerato Monatisa, Lueta A. de Kock, Bhekie B. Mamba, Thabo T. I. Nkambule, Azizallah Izady, Ali Al-Maktoumi, Titus A. M. Msagati
Summary: This paper presents the development of a model for early warning indication of pollution caused by oil produced water and as a predictive tool for compliance/noncompliance to wastewater discharge guidelines. The model was developed using physico-chemical measurements of oil-produced water samples from an oil refiner depot and evaporation rate patterns observed in a Class A evaporation Pan. Experimental data collected over six months in South Africa were used to develop a multiplicative model relating OPWE to influencing parameters. The developed model showed reasonably accurate estimation (RMSE = 0.49 mm) for OPWE and had potential for fingerprinting different OPWE compositions.
JOURNAL OF WATER PROCESS ENGINEERING
(2023)
Review
Food Science & Technology
Celia Muzeza, Veronica Ngole-Jeme, Titus Alfred Makudali Msagati
Summary: The development of packaging technology, particularly the use of plastic materials, in the food industry has raised concerns about the potential migration of unreacted monomers into food, which can have adverse effects on human health. Many countries have implemented guidelines and regulations to control the levels of packaging monomers in food, but studies have shown that some food products exceed the set migration limits, raising concerns about consumer health effects.
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
T. A. Makwakwa, D. Moema, H. Nyoni, T. A. M. Msagati
Summary: TOPSIS is a multi-criteria decision analysis tool that helps in ranking or selecting alternatives based on multiple criteria. In this study, TOPSIS methods based on objective mean weight and entropy weighting methods were used to evaluate the greenness of dispersive-extraction solvents used in DLLME for mifepristone extraction. The solvents were ranked based on attributes such as analytical performance, solvents greenness, and combination of analytical performance and solvent greenness. The best solvent pairs for mifepristone extraction were dichloroethane-acetone and chlorobenzene-tetrahydrofuran, weighted by mean and entropy weights respectively. Chloroform-acetone was found to be the most favorable option in terms of green chemistry. The performance of TOPSIS-MW and TOPSIS-Entropy was compared to simple additive weighting method and showed similar ranking observations.
